For compatible devices, the BBC iPlayer widget just got a big update from version 1.6 to version 2.5 (hat tip to Nokia Users). Speed and formatting are much better, and there are improvements in encoding and N97 homescreen widget support. More information, including some screenshots, in the full story.

Encoding / playback improvement are dependent upon the phone being used and the program being watched (it seems not all programs are converted to all resolutions / bit rates).

Get the new widget by going to www.bbc.co.uk/mobile/iplayer/ in Web on your phone.

The functionality available (playback over 3G, download ability, streaming live TV) varies depending upon your operator (Vodafone and 3 allow connections over 3G) and device (and sometimes firmware version too).  The officially compatiable devices include the Nokia N85, N86, N95, N95 8GB, N96, N97, 5800 and E71, the Samsung i8510 and i8910, but iPlayer also works on other devices including the recently released Sony Ericsson Satio.

If you can help add information about possible wider device compatibility then please do so in the comments thread.